Find a Job You Really Want In
Are you gearing up for a job search in 2026? Understanding the job market landscape in Idaho can significantly impact your job-hunting experience. The dynamics of employment opportunities vary widely across different cities, making it crucial to know where the best prospects lie.
At Zippia, we have analyzed current data to identify the cities in Idaho where job seekers are likely to find the most opportunities in 2026.
Here are the ten hottest job markets in Idaho this year.
The 10 Hottest Job Markets In Idaho
These cities represent the top ten locations in Idaho for job seekers in 2026. Read on for a detailed analysis of how we arrived at these conclusions. If your city isn’t listed in the top 10, scroll down to see its ranking in the complete list.
How We Determined the Best Job Markets in Idaho
Using the latest data from the Census American Community Survey, we assessed key metrics for Idaho’s metropolitan areas, focusing on cities with a working civilian population over 5,000.
While the unemployment rate is a critical indicator of the job market, it is only one aspect of a more complex picture. Therefore, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of Idaho’s job markets.
Each metropolitan area was evaluated and ranked from 1 to 21 across four key categories:
- Unemployment Rate
- Change in Unemployment Rate
- Household Income Change
- Current Average Household Income
A lower score in each category indicates a stronger job market. For instance, Kuna achieved the lowest unemployment rate at 1.8%, securing the top position for that metric. The rankings across these four categories were averaged to create our final list, with the lowest overall scores denoting the most favorable job markets.
1. Eagle
Unemployment Rate: 3.46%
Average Income: $121,843
2. Ammon
Unemployment Rate: 3.43%
Average Income: $86,976
3. Meridian
Unemployment Rate: 3.09%
Average Income: $87,653
4. Boise
Unemployment Rate: 4.59%
Average Income: $79,565
5. Idaho Falls
Unemployment Rate: 4.35%
Average Income: $70,948
6. Lewiston
Unemployment Rate: 4.36%
Average Income: $64,421
7. Garden
Unemployment Rate: 5.45%
Average Income: $67,368
8. Twin Falls
Unemployment Rate: 3.06%
Average Income: $62,246
9. Kuna
Unemployment Rate: 1.8%
Average Income: $69,535
10. Caldwell
Unemployment Rate: 7.8%
Average Income: $56,498
Measuring the Best Job Markets in Idaho
If you’re reading this and thinking, ‘I live in Kuna and have been unemployed for months—this can’t be accurate!’ you’re not alone. Personal circumstances can vary widely.
While Kuna boasts the hottest job market in Idaho, individual factors like education, work experience, and specific job roles play significant roles in employment success. Nonetheless, job seekers in Kuna may find more opportunities compared to those in cities ranked lower on the list.
Detailed List of the Hottest Job Markets In Idaho
| Rank | Place | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eagle | 3.46% |
| 2 | Ammon | 3.43% |
| 3 | Meridian | 3.09% |
| 4 | Boise | 4.59% |
| 5 | Idaho Falls | 4.35% |
| 6 | Lewiston | 4.36% |
| 7 | Garden | 5.45% |
| 8 | Twin Falls | 3.06% |
| 9 | Kuna | 1.8% |
| 10 | Caldwell | 7.8% |
| 11 | Jerome | 2.79% |
| 12 | Chubbuck | 5.15% |
| 13 | Hayden | 4.8% |
| 14 | Post Falls | 3.23% |
| 15 | Coeur D’alene | 5.77% |
| 16 | Mountain Home | 6.79% |
| 17 | Pocatello | 6.39% |
| 18 | Blackfoot | 1.95% |
| 19 | Moscow | 5.91% |
| 20 | Nampa | 6.51% |
| 21 | Rexburg | 7.35% |
As you navigate Idaho’s job market in 2026, keep in mind that while these rankings provide a useful guide, individual experiences may vary. Factors such as personal skills, qualifications, and the evolving nature of work in a hybrid environment can influence your job search. Stay informed and adaptable to maximize your opportunities.
Author
Kathy is the head of content at Zippia with a knack for engaging audiences. Prior to joining Zippia, Kathy worked at Gateway Blend growing audiences across diverse brands. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Social Science Education.
